Recipe: Colombian Arepa Pizza
Introduction
Colombian cuisine is known for its unique flavors and diverse dishes. One popular dish that has gained international recognition is the Colombian Arepa Pizza. This fusion of Italian and Colombian cuisines combines the traditional pizza base with the deliciousness of arepas, a staple in Colombian cuisine. In this article, we will guide you through an easy-to-follow recipe to prepare your very own Colombian Arepa Pizza.
Ingredients
To make a delicious Colombian Arepa Pizza, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Arepa dough:
– 2 cups of pre-cooked white cornmeal
– 2 cups of warm water
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
For the pizza topping:
– 1 cup of tomato sauce
– 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
– Your choice of toppings (e.g., cooked chicken, beef, ham, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms)
Instructions
Now that you have gathered all the necessary ingredients, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions to prepare your delicious Colombian Arepa Pizza.
Step 1: Preparing the Arepa dough
1. In a large bowl, combine the pre-cooked white cornmeal and salt.
2. Slowly add warm water while stirring continuously until you obtain a smooth dough.
3. Knead the dough for a few minutes until it becomes elastic.
4. Divide the dough into small portions and shape them into round discs, similar to mini pizzas.
5. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and brush it with vegetable oil.
6. Cook each arepa disc for about 5 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
Step 2: Assembling the Arepa Pizza
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the cooked arepa discs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Spread a generous amount of tomato sauce over each arepa disc, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the tomato sauce.
5. Add your desired toppings, such as cooked chicken, beef, ham, bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms.
6. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 3: Serving and Enjoying
1. Once the Colombian Arepa Pizzas are ready, remove them from the oven.
2. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.
3. Serve hot and enjoy the unique combination of flavors from the Italian pizza base and the Colombian arepa dough.
4. You can also serve them with a side of salsa or guacamole for an extra burst of flavor.
Conclusion
The Colombian Arepa Pizza is a delightful fusion dish that brings together the best of Italian and Colombian cuisines. With its crispy arepa base, gooey cheese, and flavorful toppings, this unique pizza variation is sure to impress your family and friends. Follow the simple recipe provided above, and you’ll be able to create your very own Colombian Arepa Pizza right in your kitchen. Enjoy!